DeWalt DW311K 13-Amp Reciprocating Saw Review

Quick Reference

DeWalt’s DW311K is powered by a strong 13 amp motor big enough to handle the toughest materials without bogging down. It has many of the standard features of more expensive reciprocating saws such as a tool-less blade clamp that can hold the blade teeth up or teeth down. Adjustment of the shoe length requires no tools too.

With a comfortable weight just under nine pounds, it is easy to handle even on ladders or for overhead work. The comfortable, anti-slip handle provides total control and reduces vibration.

DeWalt backs up the quality of this reciprocating saw model with a 3-year limited warranty.

Specifications

Spec Type

Spec

Notes

Saw type

Corded

Tool Weight

under 9 lbs.

Tool Length

18.0 inches

Power/Volts

13 amps/120VAC

Strokes per minute

0-2700

Stroke Length

1-1/8 inches

Blade Depth Adjustment

No

Adjustable shoe

Variable Speed Trigger

Yes

Speed Limit Control

Yes

Tool-less blade clamp

Yes

Twist type

Adjustable Shoe

Yes

2-Way Blade Positioning

Yes

4-Way Blade Positioning

No

Anti-Slip Comfort Grip

Yes

Carrying Case

Yes

Plastic

Advanced Features

Anti-Vibration System

No

Open Toe Shoe

No

Cut Zone Lighting

No

Orbital Motion

Yes

Electronic Load Compensation

No

Blade Clutch

No

Metal Housing

No

Review

For the price, you get a lot of power – 13 amps – for tackling most materials while providing a long duty cycle. It tackles even cast iron and masonry, but be sure you use the correct blade. The speed control limiter, if used to match material type, extends blade and saw life. Orbital action keeps the kerf clear when cutting wood, which speeds things up, but turn it off on other materials in order to make smoother, straighter cuts.

If you plan to use the DeWalt DW311K for extended periods of time, the lack of anti-vibration technology might be a serious drawback. Even with the soft grip, it could create tingling in your hands, which leads to operator fatigue.

The blade clamp is tool-less, but it is an unprotected knurled knob. It is not the easiest clamp to operate with gloves on. If you do not wear gloves, however, you risk burning your fingers on the bare knob if the saw is hot. This design oversight can be overcome by keeping a pair of thinner work gloves in the saw case.

Some users are going to have a problem with the case. It is not long enough to allow the saw to be put away without removing the blade first. Additionally, its size makes it difficult to store the cord without carefully winding it into a tight coil. Experience with DeWalt cases points to the hinges as being weak, so make sure the lid closes without pressure.

Pros

Motor sized for heavy-duty jobs

Faster wood cuts with orbital motion

Durable stainless steel, adjustable shoe

Good power-to-weight ratio

Cons

No vibration control technology

Missing some higher-end features

Case is too small

Our Verdict

It is a no-excuses saw with few frills aimed squarely at the DIY handyperson who wants basic utility and plenty of power. It is strong enough to be a primary or backup saw for construction workers without blowing the budget.

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